Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2023 - PSYC 362 OL01

Close Relationships (3)

Class Number: 2980

Delivery Method: Online

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Online

  • Instructor:

    Rebecca Cobb
    rcobb@sfu.ca
    Office: RCB 8304
    Office Hours: TBA

  • Prerequisites:

    PSYC 201 and 260.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Reviews theory and research on the psychology of romantic relationships. Topics may include relationship theories, communication, social cognitive processes, intimate partner violence, and relationship interventions.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course examines theories, research, and issues related to romantic relationships. Topics covered include (a) theories of close relationships (e.g., attachment theory, interdependence theory), (b) dyadic processes (e.g., communication, conflict, aggression, social support), and (c) couple interventions (e.g., prevention and therapy).

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

• To introduce students to the major theoretical perspectives in the study of romantic relationships.
• To provide students with an understanding of the research methods and findings relevant to the study of romantic relationships.
• To provide students with the knowledge and skills to critically evaluate claims about relationships.

Topics:

Relationship theories (e.g., attachment theory), relationship processes (e.g., support, conflict), negative relationship behaviour (e.g., partner violence, infidelity), and relationship interventions. We will cover cutting edge topics in the relationship research world such as consensually non-monogamous relationships and how technology affects relationships.

Grading

  • Infographic assignment: 10%
  • Module quizzes: 20%
  • Couple group assignments: 35%
  • Individual written assignments: 35%

NOTES:

The evaluation breakdown is tentative and will be confirmed in the first week of class.

Please note that this is an Intersession course.

REQUIREMENTS:

There are NO prerequisite waivers for this course. This is an instructor led online course. That means all components of the course are completed online including quizzes. This course involves significant group work, so please be prepared to participate in group activities weekly via zoom (at your group's convenience) and on the discussion board.

As this is an online course without scheduled lectures, your pace is partially self-directed. However, you will be required to discuss and prepare multiple assignments with your group members (e.g., zoom, online discussion board) and successful assignments require completion of the modules in a timely way.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

The course materials will be in the form of textbook readings, empirical articles, blog posts, podcasts by relationship scientists, and short video lectures.

REQUIRED READING:

Bradbury, T. N., & Karney, B.R. (2019). Intimate Relationships (3rd ed.). New York, NY: WW Norton & Company.
ISBN: 9780393667219

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the semester are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.